Abnormal Readings

[Fred_46]

I have a bicuspid heart valve and AI with mild to severe regurgitation.  Abnormal reading on echocardiogram are as follows:
LV size is upper limits of normal. Ascending aorta mildly enlarged.  LV Diastolic dimension is 5.8 cm.   LV Shortening fraction is 46%.  LVPW Diastolic thickness is 1.3 cm.  Doppler measurement on Aortic Valve peak velocity is 2.9 cm/sec.  Aortic valve-mild thickening, moderate calcification, bicuspid aortic valve.  Summary: Decreased LV function, Aortic annulus 2.9 cm, Bicuspid aortic valve with moderate to severe aortic insufficiency, partial diastolic flow reversal seen in desc aorta, Dilated annulus and ascending aorta (mild), Upper limits of normal left ventricular end diastolic dimension with normal end systolic dimension and normal ejection fraction 55-60%.  
I have had differences of opinion on surgery, please give me what opinion you can from the above readings.  No symptons except for a little fatigue as of yet. I am on Nefidipine and due for another echo the end of September.  

[luv2ride]

I had a echocardiogram but I don't know what the readings mean, they are as follows. I assume they are normal or my dr would have contacted me.

LV: 43mm
IVS: 10mm
LVPW: 09mm
LA: 32mm
Aorta: 26mm
RV: 26mm
RVW: 03mm
RA: 30mm
PA: 23mm


Normal left and right ventricular funtion. Ejection fraction>55%.
Mild tricuspid regurgitation. Estimated pulmonary artery systolic pressure=36mmHg.

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear fred,
Of course I can't give you a true opinion without seeing the actual tests and all your records but I can tell you in general how we approach these cases.  Aortic stenosis (narrowing) can usually wait for surgery until symptoms appear.  Aortic insufficiency is a bit more difficult to time because if you wait for symptoms you have probably waited too long.  We usually wait until there is severe AI and if we see any decrease in LV function we are more likely to proceed.  I think your best option may be to come to Cleveland for a formal evaluation.  You can make an appointment by calling the number below and asking to see one of the "valve" cardiologists such as Dr. Stewart.